Eddie Hearn breaks down the rules for the Anthony Joshua vs Jake Paul showdown
Promoter Eddie Hearn has addressed the rules for Anthony Joshua’s anticipated December fight against Jake Paul. The boxing world was sent into a frenzy on Wednesday evening when reports confirmed that former two-time world heavyweight champion Joshua is in advanced talks to face ‘The Problem Child’ in Miami next month.
The two fighters have long hinted at a potential showdown. However, after Paul’s planned bout with Gervonta ‘Tank’ Davis was canceled, a fight with Joshua moved closer to reality. Streaming platform Netflix is reportedly very eager to host the event, which would generate global attention if it goes ahead.
Throughout his 13-fight, often controversial career, Paul has competed under various unique rule sets. His canceled fight with Davis was to be an exhibition with special rules, while his bout with Mike Tyson last November, although professional, was limited to eight two-minute rounds.
Why Anthony Joshua is Taking on Jake Paul
In the midst of all the hype, Matchroom CEO Hearn spoke to Sky Sports about why Joshua is willing to face a relative newcomer like Paul.
“We were originally planning an eight-round fight this year on an undercard somewhere. We didn’t expect it to be against Jake Paul, but if it is, it comes with 50 times the money we were originally set to earn.”
Joshua had been linked to a potential undercard appearance at Matchroom’s December 20th event in Ghana, but attention has now shifted to a lucrative fight with the YouTuber-turned-boxer. ‘AJ’ aims to rebound after his heavy defeat to Daniel Dubois last September.
Hearn also provided an update on the fight rules. When asked if it would be an exhibition, he replied firmly:
“No, not an exhibition. We’re not doing exhibitions. This is a real fight!”
While nothing has been finalized, Hearn confirmed:
“It’s a heavyweight fight. There are still details to work out, like rounds and weight, but it would be a real fight under Queensberry rules with 10-ounce gloves.”
Queensberry Rules Explained
If Joshua vs Paul goes ahead under Queensberry rules, the following would apply:
10oz gloves (standard for heavyweight fights)
Three-minute rounds
No headgear
Judges score the fight, with the result counting on both fighters’ professional records
Hearn emphasized that the rules will not be altered:
“If you want a fight, it’s a fight. I’m not doing an exhibition for AJ. If Paul is bold enough to step into the heavyweight ring, he’s a brave man.”
These comments are supported by Ring Magazine journalist Mike Coppinger, who reports the fight is scheduled for Friday, December 19th.
